Importance of Foot Health in Agriculture

As of the 2017 Census of Agriculture, 11% of U.S. producers have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. That's over 370,000 people!

Veteran farmers have unique lived experiences and stressors, which can be exacerbated by agriculture. In this month's episode of Talking Total Farmer Health, our host Linda Emanuel speaks with Dr. Adam Ingrao on important factors that impact veteran farmers. They also discuss resources and they dive into how beekeeping can positively impact the health and well-being of veterans and their families.

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While the holidays can be a time filled with family, laughter and delicious food, it can also be filled with stress. Holiday stress affects people differently, and you may find that it impacts you more emotionally, physically, or a combination of both. Common symptoms of holiday stress can be insomnia, irritability, fatigue, headaches, feeling anxious and feeling depressed (source).

• So many to-dos at work, so little time: Take time off if possible. Taking time off around the holidays to invest in your other values can help create work-life balance.
• Navigating family conflict: Set boundaries. Carve out time for yourself and limit activities that may harm your mental health.
• Struggling with financial strain: Make a budget before the holidays arrive and stick to it. You can also cut down on your exposure to ads and commercialism on TV and other media.
• Struggling with expectations: Make time for relaxation and exercise. A brief mindful breathing practice can have a meaningful impact on your stress levels.
• Grief and loss: Find a support group or online network related to grief and loss, and consider talking with a mental health care provider.
• Feeling disappointed: Notice when you’re selling yourself short. When we get stuck in negative thoughts, we tend not to notice what’s going well. Identify things that are helpful to you or bring you joy. 
• Loneliness: Avoid using alcohol or other drugs as a way of coping with holiday stress and loneliness. Consider volunteering and giving back to others, which promotes a sense of connectedness to others.
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Make time for things that bring you joy, and try spending some time outdoors when the weather is nice.
• Managing struggles with alcohol use: Make a plan for avoiding or coping with triggers. That could mean calling a trusted friend or family member, having an excuse (and means of transportation) on hand should you need to leave early, or practicing what you would say when someone offers you an alcoholic beverage that you don’t want to accept.



Source: Lyra Health